Payroll Specialist

We are looking for a Payroll Specialist to support payroll operations in Kenmore, Washington. This contract opportunity with potential for a long-term role is ideal for someone who can manage full-cycle payroll with accuracy, maintain compliance across multiple states, and serve as a dependable resource for employees and managers. The role follows a hybrid schedule with time split between remote work and on-site collaboration.Responsibilities:• Manage the complete semi-monthly payroll cycle, from gathering and validating pay data through final submission, distribution, and post-payroll reporting.• Maintain payroll records and update employee information related to earnings, deductions, taxes, leave balances, direct deposit details, and benefit elections.• Review timekeeping entries, new employee setup, and payroll changes to confirm accuracy, completeness, and timely approval before each payroll deadline.• Investigate payroll discrepancies, resolve routine issues, and escalate complex compliance or system concerns when needed.• Act as a key point of contact for staff and supervisors by answering questions related to pay, tax withholding, deductions, timecards, and payroll procedures.• Support payroll tax compliance for employees in Washington, California, and other applicable jurisdictions, including reporting and related documentation.• Assist with payroll audits, reconciliations, and year-end activities such as W-2 preparation and payroll record balancing.• Partner with Finance and IT to improve payroll workflows, strengthen controls, and assist with system testing, updates, and payroll-related process enhancements.